Small business coaches often encourage their clients to seek one on one business coaching from other experts. But is that a good idea? Does seeking advice from an expert reduce the individual’s self-imposed partiality and give her a realistic look at how she can grow a business? The debate between hiring an expert and working with one-on-one business coaching will continue until the point that one or the other is not needed anymore.
First, let’s take a closer look at the whole “one on one” concept. When we refer to it as “one on one”, we say that we are one with our client in this interaction. The essence of this is that a business coach is one with her or him! The fact that they are two minds in one body makes for a powerful metaphor.
As the coach and his or her client relate more with each other, a powerful transformation occurs. For the one on one relationship to grow the business, both must be committed to the process. If one tried to grow a business without putting in the other half the partnership, success would be guaranteed in the beginning. Still, the ultimate challenge would remain the same: overcoming resistance and finding common ground.
That brings us to the second part of the original metaphor: when we hire an expert, we are putting our money (and therefore our growth) into someone else’s hands. We don’t know what they will do with it, and frankly, we shouldn’t. We know that if we hire someone to help us build the business, then we have to share some of our responsibility. We should never believe we have to choose someone who will help us grow the business but should always insist that they help us grow in areas we decide. We can also help them with practical advice and recommendations but never take over the leadership role.
This second point is related to the first. It is not enough for one person to have access to our business or our advice – we need two people to grow together. Coaching is all about helping others to succeed. To be successful, you have to give. Giving advice, sharing your business experiences, and understanding how the business world works, are meaningless unless you are willing to take that extra step. You have to give before you get.
This one on one business coaching model is different than just having a one on one conversation. It involves an ongoing relationship. The coach facilitates that relationship by encouraging cooperation, empathy, and open communication. The one on one business coaching model helps you grow a business. It enables you to better understand the business model, and it empowers you to make informed decisions that will have a long-lasting impact.
The one-on-one business coach’s goal is to create a partnership between client and coach that brings about a win-win situation for both people involved. The one on one business coaching model also provides an environment where the client can learn more about his business. He or she gets a clear vision of his business problems. He or she can start developing those problems independently without worrying about someone looking over their shoulder or judging him or her.
The one on one business coaching model is not for everyone. If you have tried unsuccessfully to coach other people successfully, it may not be the right fit. But if you are interested in becoming a business coach, you can do that even if you have a limited amount of business experience. All you need is the desire to make a difference in the world. And in this case – your business.
